(Brampton) - Preliminary tests indicate that two crows and one blue jay
from Peel Region are presumed positive for the West Nile virus. All three
birds were found in Mississauga.

"This finding is not a surprise, as it was known that the virus had
reached the GTA," says Dr. David McKeown, Medical Officer of Health
for the Region of Peel. "I'd like to emphasize that the risk of human
infection remains low. However, I encourage everyone to take common sense
steps to reduce the risk of mosquito bites."

Residents are reminded to:

Avoid areas with high mosquito populations.

Wear light-coloured clothing, including long sleeves, pants and a hat,
to cover exposed skin.

Use a mosquito repellent containing DEET. For adults, look for repellents
containing 35 per cent DEET. Children should wear a repellent with no
more than 6 to 10 per cent DEET.

Drain any areas of standing or stagnant water on your property. Remove
old tires, turn over pails, toys and wheelbarrows, and frequently change
the water in birdbaths. Also, keep your eavestroughs clear to avoid trapped
water.

Take extra precaution at dusk and dawn when mosquito activity is particularly
high.

"Further testing will confirm the presence of the virus in these three
birds," says Dr. McKeown. "We will be keeping our residents informed
as more information becomes available."

Further information on West Nile virus, tips to reduce mosquito breeding
areas, advice on personal protection from mosquito bites and details on
how to report dead birds can be found at www.peel-bugbite.ca
or by calling Health Line Peel, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to
5:00 p.m., at 905-799-7700.